Health

Mumps Outbreak Raises Questions About Childhood Vaccinations

The recent mumps outbreak at Ohio State University is raising questions about the effectiveness of childhood vaccinations.

Dr. Camille Sabella of the Cleveland Clinic says no vaccine is 100 percent foolproof, but adds that parents need to make sure children get both doses of the vaccine.

"The vaccine series for mumps consists of two doses of MMR vaccine. The first dose is usually given at one year of age. The second dose is given usually between four and six years of age," Sabella said.

Sabella adds that ten to 20 percent of the population could still get the mumps even when vaccinated.

The doctor says the complications from the disease can be serious, but are usually extremely rare.